What's your question about?

How Do You Get as Spindly Gardenia to Become More Bushy?

I have two gardenias and both are really spindly with only a few leaves on the ends of the branches. I need to know how to make these gardenias more bushy. Do I prune back the bare branches to allow for new growth, and if so, how far from the bottom of the plant?

Check here if you would like to receive notifications every time this question is answered.

You are subscribed to receive notifications whenever this question is answered.

ANSWERS

NikkiCertified GKH Gardening Expert

Answered on March 12, 2012

I would try a method called rejuvenation pruning. Prune back 1/3 of the largest or leggiest branches by up to 1/3 each year. This will bring the fullness back to the plant over the course of 3 years (though you will see a marked improvement in 1 year) without endangering the plant. Any more than this, and the plant may die. Here is an article that you may also find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/gardenia/when-to-prune-a-gardenia.htm